Philadelphia Phillies infielder Bryson Stott has continued to operate as one of the more underrated everyday players in the lineup.
At the plate, the 28-year-old has been a productive hitter, posting a .255 batting average, .331 on-base percentage, .734 OPS, 10 home runs and 61 RBIs across 134 games. He is also a constant threat on the bases, having stolen 24 bags this year without being caught once.
He also provides interim manager Don Mattingly with infield versatility and has transitioned to third base over the past month to allow Luis Arraez to play second base. Even while learning the hot corner on the fly, Stott has been a plus defender.
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Stott missed Friday’s game against the Atlanta Braves due to personal reasons. He was originally included in the lineup but was scratched moments before first pitch, with Edmundo Sosa taking over the vacated spot at third base and Bryan De La Cruz taking his place in the batting order.
After the game, Mattingly did not provide any details on the reason for Stott’s absence. On Saturday, Stott revealed the reason himself in a personal announcement.
On his Instagram story, Stott shared that his wife Dru had given birth to a baby girl, marking their third child together. He wrote “She’s here!!!” while also adding a message of support for his wife as their family grows.
Shortly after the announcement, the Phillies revealed their lineup for Saturday’s second game against the Braves, and this time Stott was included hitting 7th and playing third base.
Most players head to the paternity list in a situation like this, but Stott understands the stakes.
The Phillies have a chance to cut into Atlanta’s division lead and potentially insert themselves in the running for a top-two seed in the National League, earning a first-round bye.
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